Magnesia Springs Canyon

Magnesia Springs Canyon is a 5 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Rancho Mirage, California that offers scenic views and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and trail running and is accessible year-round.

DO NOT BOTHER. I hiked around the whole area - in fact, 5.3 miles, to never be able to access this trail. Thankfully I started early & was able to watch the sunrise! The only good thing about this hike!

I believe this hike is suppose to be only accessible between September 30 and January 1 to preserve the habitat. It looked like there were fresh tracks from a person and a dog but we didn't want to risk it. Only a three month window which is unfortunate. You have to enter the gate to the mountain park follow the wash not the trail and walk past all the warning signs. You will get to a huge cement platform at the start of the wash. This is just over a mile from the parking lot. Walk down the steep cement face and up the cemented rock face on the other side. Will be putting this hike on my list to do next fall.

I suppose this trail is better suited for those with local knowledge. We attempted it, but couldn't discern the proper trail. Signs all over the place said "Park Boundary, no trespassing." We bailed out after :45 of trying to find the route!

After a boring start (from where you park, behind RM Elementary) to right after passing the wide basin, the canyon is spectacular. Right at the watering hole that's been built for the wild sheep, there is one climb after another but all easily doable if you bring the right shoes and free hands to grab onto the rocks. There are many palm groves all along and in the summer, during an early morning hike, there is plenty of shade, thanks to how deep the canyon runs in many parts. A few signs posted warn hikers to keep out... but people hike undisturbed all the same. Definitely worth trying!